Flaxseed Oil vs Fish Oil
The main difference between flaxseed oil and fish oil lies in their composition, though both contain a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil and fish oil supplements are consumed for their numerous health benefits and nutrient content. They are derived from different sources and can be consumed in various ways. This article will provide information on the differences between flaxseed oil and fish oil.
What is Fish Oil?
Fish oil can be obtained by consuming fish directly or by taking fish oil supplements. It is derived from the tissues of oily fish, such as mackerel, tuna, salmon, bluefish, sturgeon, sardines, and herring, which are known to have high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements are typically made from whale or seal blubber, or from the livers of salmon, cod, tuna, halibut, herring, or mackerel.
Nutritionally, fish oil contains two types of omega-3 fatty acids: Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). It does not contain fiber since it is derived from fish. Fish oil is believed to lower triglycerides and blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and decrease chronic inflammation.
What is Flaxseed Oil?
Flaxseed oil is made from the seeds of the flax plant. To make the oil, flax seeds are ground or crushed and pressed. Flaxseed oil can be consumed by mixing it with food, but too much can be harmful to health.
Flaxseed oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, with more omega-3 content than fish oil. The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil come in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which comprises about 50-60% of the oil. However, the human body is not very efficient at converting ALA to the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, so it may not provide the same benefits as EPA and DHA.
Flaxseed oil contains fiber, and it is recommended to include sources of fresh water fish in the diet to ensure adequate intake of EPA and DHA. Flaxseed oil is believed to have anti-cancer effects.
Key Takeaways
- Fish oil is derived from animal tissues, while flaxseed oil comes from the flax plant.
- Fish oil contains EPA and DHA fatty acids, whereas flaxseed oil has ALA, which the body can convert to EPA and DHA, though not very efficiently.
- Flaxseed oil has higher omega-3 content and also contains omega-6 and fiber, which are not present in fish oil.
